Private investigators have very interesting jobs. They search, gather, collate, analyze, and report evidences to different people that hire them. We have fancied them over the generations because of the prestige, intrigue, and appeal of their job as told in the movies.

However, you don’t just simply sign up for the job. There is more to it than just hunting for proof with a magnifying glass or breaking into vaults. Should you be interested, read this article to help you understand the process of being a private investigator.

State Licensing Requirements

The first step is to search about your state’s licensure. Professional regulation and licensing are under state agencies across the country. Although there are some that don’t require licensure, individuals and businesses involved in private investigation still have to adhere to standard regulations. It is a must that you find out what your state requires you to complete before you take in the endeavor. List the minimum requirements and the educational and training requirements that you need to complete to practice the profession.

From there, make sure that you match all the minimum requirements needed for licensure. They still differ in each state, but basically, you have to be between 21-25 years old, a US citizen or US resident, free from felony and other convictions, holds a high school diploma, and owns no dishonorable discharge from the US army.

It is very important that we are knowledgeable in our vocation. The third step is to attain the educational and training requirements of the licensure. Majority of the states do not include education as a qualification, but most people who aspire to be a private investigator still strive to have enough knowledge concerning the justice system and law enforcement practices of their respective state.

Overcoming Challenges

As in any profession, working experience matters. Those who have difficulty in looking for a job can use their educational background to make up for this. Acquire work experience as a risk manager, law enforcement officer for the state or local department, claims investigator, or director of a security company. These professions are relevant to being a potential private investigator. You can also inquire about interning at a reputable private investigation firm to gain experience.

The most important step is to pass all the exams. You need to be state exam passer after you apply for a state license. Most states hold his protocol to ensure that their professionals are well-versed with the rules and regulations concerning their work as a private investigator. Applying and maintaining the state licensure is very vital. As a private investigator, it is only proper for the state to run a comprehensive background check on you and demand for all documentation of your professional and educational qualifications. You are able to maintain the state licensure if you renew it every two years or depending on the state where you are practicing the profession.

Private investigation is a risky profession even if they are only indirectly related to the crimes that they encounter. Crime scenes can be traumatic at best, and dangerous at worse. There are states that permit them to carry firearms. This is possible if they undergo mandatory firearms training through FBI, Smith & Wesson, National Rifle Association, or any accredited firearms instructor school.

The road to being a full-fledged private investigator is long and winding, but it is also equally rewarding and fulfilling.